A Focusrite audio interface functions exceptionally well as a standalone or integrated preamplifier because its hardware units contain built-in analog mic preamps that boost weak microphone and instrument signals up to professional line levels. If you wish to bypass the built-in converters and use only the preamps to feed another recording device, certain models feature optical or line outputs, though most users utilize the unit's integrated preamp and converter stages directly together as a unified front-end recording solution for their studio monitors and computer setups.